Symptoms

Like all blood cells, leukemia cells travel through the body. The symptoms of leukemia depend on the number of leukemia cells and where these cells collect in the body.

People with chronic leukemia may not have symptoms. The doctor may find the disease during a routine blood test.

People with acute leukemia usually go to their doctor because they feel sick. If the brain is affected, they may have headaches, vomiting, confusion, loss of muscle control, or seizures. Leukemia also can affect other parts of the body such as the digestive tract, kidneys, lungs, heart, or testes.

Common symptoms of chronic or acute leukemia may include:

Swollen lymph nodes that usually don't hurt (especially lymph nodes in the neck or armpit)

Fevers or night sweats

Frequent infections

Feeling weak or tired

Bleeding and bruising easily (bleeding gums, purplish patches in the skin, or tiny red spots under the skin)

Swelling or discomfort in the abdomen (from a swollen spleen or liver)